Make it real — JobStart Philippines has always tried to put this statement in the minds of the youth since the program started. It is a platform where the youth can realize their potential, and become productive members of society and a beacon of hope for their family. Jenny Alviola, a 20-year-old JobStarter from Dumaguete, is one of the many beneficiaries of the program who strives to make her dream a reality.

Jenny supported herself throughout college by being a part-time caregiver until graduating from a two-year MedicalDental Nursing Aid course in Dumaguete. She eventually became a full-time caregiver after graduating from college. This was what she knew best and what she was used to doing. Then, nights became longer and sleep turned shorter. Her salary was barely enough to cover her daily expenses.

It only took her a trip to the nearest Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in her areato discover a better career path to pursue.She found out about JobStart and immediately registered to the program. Alviola participated in the Life Skills Training (LST)which prepares the youth to become more ready to face the realities of work environments.

(The training helped me a lot. I gained confidence in applying for work because I learned what to say when asked by the interviewer. The training greatly helped in improving my well-being by lessening my anxiety when applying for work.)

Currently, she is undergoing internship as a Medical Transcriptionist in Tech Synergy Dumaguete Transcription where she gets good scores and evaluations during her technical training. She says she owes a huge chunk of this new experience to the LST. "Tinulungan nila akong i-enhance yung skills ko na hindi ko alam pa noon."(They enhanced my skills I never knew I had.)

Alviola receives a P200 daily allowance during LST and technical training which she gives to her mother to support their family. She smiles as she knows this is just the beginning of a worthwhile journey.